When it comes time to choose a haircut, one of the most debated styles is the high fade vs low fade. Both of these fade haircuts are awesome, and they look amazing, but what’s the difference between the two? Understanding the differences can help you choose which kind of fade is right for you. In this article, we will explore and expose all of the differentiating factors between these two fades, key factors to consider before getting one, as well as answer some frequently asked questions on both fades.
A fade haircut is when the hair gradually shortens from the top of the head down to the nape of the neck and around to the ears. It’s one of the most popular cuts for men, mainly because it has such a clean and modern look. The fade can be broken up into different types based on where exactly you’d like your fade to start, but in general, let’s talk about two of the most popular fades: high fades and low fades.
Table of Contents
What Is a High Fade?
A high fade haircut starts the blending process at or above your temples and works its way down the back of your head until it begins to blend with the skin towards the nape area. This means that you’ll be leaving a whole lot more length on top in comparison to the cropped, faded sides.
Your hair up top can also be kept at either a short or medium length, so long as there’s enough of a contrast between what’s up top and what’s going on around your sides.
What Is a Low Fade?
A low fade haircut starts to taper anywhere above the ear and neckline. This haircut provides a simple and clean look without being too bold or aggressive like the high fade.
Since there is more hair on top of your head with a low skin fade, you’re able to do more styles, such as a pompadour, quiff, bro flow, or crew cut.
High Fade vs Low Fade Key Differences Between The Styles
| Feature | High Fade | Low Fade |
|---|---|---|
| Fade Start Point | Above the temples or at the temples | Just above the ears |
| Look | Bold and dramatic | Subtle and refined |
| Best For | Those who want a sharp, standout look | Those who prefer a softer, balanced fade |
| Contrast | High contrast between the top and sides | Less contrast, giving a smoother blend |
| Versatility | Works well with short hairstyles on top | Works with both short and medium hairstyles |
Which Fade Should You Get?
The high fade vs low fade debate comes down to your personal style, hair type, and the look you want. Here are a few things to consider when making your choice:
- Face Shape: A high fade is great for round faces because it adds sharpness and lengthens the face. A low fade works with just about any face shape but looks best on square or oval shapes.
- Hair Type: A high fade will work great for those men with thicker hair who want to add some volume on top while still keeping the sides nice and tight. A low fade is a better option for guys with thinner hair since it creates a more natural look.
- Lifestyle: If you want a really dramatic hairstyle, a high fade is an awesome choice. But if you need something more conservative or low-key, the low fade haircut might be better suited for your needs.
- Maintenance: High fades require more regular maintenance, as high fade haircuts are generally bolder and more defined. On the other hand, low fades can be easier to maintain because they grow out naturally and usually blend in well.
Extra Tips for Choosing between High Fade vs Low Fade
Both high fade vs low fade are common and versatile options, but here are some additional tips to guide you in your choice of which cut is best for you:
1. Think about the texture of your hair
- Curly Hair: If you have curly hair, you’ll be able to experiment with height on your curls while keeping the sides clean and controlled with a high fade. Since the curls are longer on top and shorter on the sides, this can create some nice contrasting balance.
- Straight Hair: For straight hair, both fades work nicely. Go with the high fade vs low fade for an edgier and more modern style or with the low fade for a more subtle approach.
- Wavy Hair: Wavy hair can rock both fades. If you want to make the waves known with the high fade vs low fade(with a longer top), you can do that. Or if you’re looking for a low-maintenance type of style, the low fade with wave is a good idea.
2. Take into account your styling process
- The high fade vs low fade ultimately will depend on the level of effort you are willing to expend in styling your hair. If you enjoy using wax or pomade to style for volume and texture, then the high fade vs low fade choice will lead toward a high fade.
- A high fade allows the top hair to be longer, which provides you with plenty of flexibility in styles; plus, with the high fade, your sides will be short, and you will have plenty of height to give you leeway to experiment with styles like pompadour, quaff, or messy texture.
- If you are looking for something with no fuss and low maintenance, the high fade vs low fade debate would lean toward the low fade. The low fade has a subtle transition from your top hair to the sides and requires less effort in the styling department, so you get an immediate grab-and-go look with low-maintenance styling.
3. Facial Hair Pairing
- The high fade vs low fade will also impact how well your facial hair pairs with your haircut. If you wear a full beard, your high fade vs low fade choice can make quite a statement. If you choose a high fade, the blunt contrast of a skin fade on the sides and the full beard will accentuate your facial hair.
- If you prefer a less challenging look, then the high fade vs low fade might favor a low fade. A low fade will work well with a beard while offering a more subtle and balanced appearance. In this case, there is less contrast, so you should not border on obnoxious or unkempt.
4. Seasonal Preference
- The final consideration when deciding if a high fade or low fade is the main differentiating consideration between seasons.
- In the warmer months of the year, the high fade vs low fade comparison will lean toward the high fade. You will definitely want to keep the sides short, and while you will have longer hair on top, a high fade vs low fade will allow you to try a couple of different styles while keeping your head cooler.
- In the winter months, the high fade vs low fade discussion will look very different. In the winter, a low fade might be a better option, since it will give you options for how long you may grow out your hair while keeping a soft, bendable look.
- A low fade would allow you to keep longer lengths on top to keep your head warm on cold winter days, which would give your style more options for growing out your hair throughout the season.
Looking for more hairstyle inspiration? Check out our blog on the Top 15 Professional Men’s Hairstyles Loved in 2025 for trendy and stylish haircut ideas
FAQs
Q1. Is a high fade good for curly hair?
A: Yes, a high fade can look good on men with curly hair. The high fade haircut creates an aggressive, trimmed-down look that focuses your eyes on the styling on top (especially if you choose a short, curly fringe) and creates more balance to the overall shape of the head. You can also have fun with different styles and really make your curly locks stand out.
Q2. How long does a low fade last before needing a touch-up?
A: A low fade typically lasts around 2-3 weeks before needing a touch-up, depending on how fast your hair grows. Since it’s less dramatic than a high fade, it may blend in better as it grows out.
Q3. Can I style a high fade with a beard?
A: Certainly! A high fade and a beard work together to create an edgy, defined look. The short sides contrast sharply with the length of the beard, making both the fade and the beard focal points.
Q4. Which one gives a professional look, a high fade or a low fade?
A: Low fades are considered more professional because of how clean they look. It’s not too distracting or anything; it’s just well-groomed and clean-looking, which is why you would go with the low fade for work.
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